Worst Airports Globally (as per TikTok users' experiences)
Accurately depicting the struggles faced by travelers, TikTok has vehemently voiced their dislike towards various airports. From the harried American race through Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to the confusing maze of London Heathrow Airport (LHR), and the chaotic mess that is Miami International Airport (MIA), these airports have garnered widespread ire.
ATL, the self-proclaimed kingpin of frustration, nabbed a whopping 13.5% of mentions—and a whopping 19.2% of mentions among domestic airports. People find running from one end of this airport to the other akin to competing in a 5K race, while others liken it to Dante's impossible eighth circle of Hell.
LHR hasn't fared much better, earning an impressive 30% of mentions as the reigning international airport complaint. Travelers bemoaned the unclear layout upon arriving in London and terminal confusion when departing. Security procedures were also cited as a significant source of anxiety.
Frequently described as "overcrowded, chaotic, and inconvenient," MIA is the third most hated airport on the list with 4.68% overall mentions and 8.5% among domestic airport mentions. Cleanliness concerns were also notably more prevalent at this South Florida outpost.
Orlando International Airport (MCO), often considered a family-friendly gateway, didn't leave parents taken aback by its friendliness, with 4.61% of overall mentions from irate airport-goers. The sheer volume of Disney-bound travelers and overwhelming security lines made this a frequent complaint.
Never-ending construction and consistent congestion led 4.09% of commenters to despair about Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) garnered 3.74% of mentions overall, but finished second among international airports (16%) thanks to frequent luggage mishaps and chaotic customs.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) earned its spot on the list for frequent delays, outdated terminals, and poor amenities, resulting in 3.91% of overall mentions.
Despite being the nation's third-busiest airport, Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) ranked just behind Newark with an almost identical 3.91% of overall mentions. Travelers lamented the labyrinthine terminal layout and luggage woes.
Denver International Airport (DEN)'s sprawling, confusing layout and chronic construction problems earned it 3.87% of overall mentions.
Lastly, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) drew negative attention for outdated infrastructure and stressful international flights, with 2.89% of overall mentions.
Overall, some of the most common complaints from travelers included poor food options, confusing layouts, and overcrowding. The most frequently mentioned international airports were London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle, while Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson, Miami International, and Orlando International topped the domestic airports list.
- Some travelers, unhappy with their flight delays, expressed their frustration on social media, including posts about their challenging experiences at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL).
- When planning their lifestyle, travelers often face difficulties choosing a hotel, especially when their travels take them to overcrowded and chaotic airports like Orlando International Airport (MCO).
- To ease the stress of long travel days, many tourists resort to entertainment to pass the time, but airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with ongoing construction and congestion can dampen any enjoyment.
- Travel insurance might be a crucial addition for those frequently visiting the most hated airports like Miami International Airport (MIA), known for its confusing maze and cleanliness concerns.
- While on a trip, travelers might decide to post their experiences on their various social-media platforms, showcasing both the difficulties such as the harried race through ATL and the beautiful sights, like the iconic attractions at Orlando International Airport (MCO).